Youth Ag Leadership Development Grants

As the current generation of farmers and ranchers continues to age, there is a strong imperative to help nurture and train the next generation of leaders. Youth Agriculture Leadership Development Grants provide young learners with the instruction, experience, and resources to ensure the continuity and ongoing success of farming in the U.S.

What are Youth Agriculture Leadership Development Grants?

Youth Agriculture Leadership Development Grants are funding opportunities awarded to federal, regional, state, and local agricultural education programs (Link to Sub-Page 9: Agriculture Leadership Development Areas of Focus) geared toward youth, as well as public school systems, non-profit organizations, and student associations serving the educational needs of young learners with an interest in agriculture, natural resources, and related subject areas. Youth Agriculture Leadership Development Grants support the critical leadership development component of agricultural education, providing the next generation of agriculture professionals with the skills to advance in their careers (Link to Sub-Page 10: Agriculture Leadership Careers) while advancing the agriculture industry as a whole.

To learn more about the subjects and courses comprising an agriculture leadership development program, take a closer look at these Agriculture Leadership Development Areas of Focus. (Link to: Sub-Page 9: Agriculture Leadership Development Areas of Focus)

Who is served by Youth Agriculture Leadership Development Grants?

Youth Agriculture Leadership Development Grants provide funding so that young learners and young adults can learn essential organizational leadership skills in an agricultural education context. Age requirements for participation in grant-funded youth agriculture leadership development programs vary. Below are the age requirements for some of the most noteworthy national programs offering youth agriculture leadership development opportunities:

  • Future Farmers of America serves students ages 12 to 21;
  • 4-H Leadership Development programs serves youths ages of 8 to 18; and
  • Young Leaders in Agriculture serves young adults, ages 18 to 22.

Who Can Apply?

Organizational eligibility for youth agriculture leadership development grants may vary. Read the details on qualifying for any agriculture education grant before applying. Among those who may qualify are:

  • Public Schools
  • Colleges and Universities
  • Municipalities
  • State Government Agencies
  • 501(c)3 Non-Profit Groups
  • Student Associations
  • Native American Tribes

Apply Now

Find out if your organization is eligible and learn how to apply for a Youth Agriculture Leadership Development Grant.